TIFF26: “ALPHA GANG” REVIEW

By David Baldwin

A group of aliens disguised in human bodies and clad in leather biker jackets and 1950s era apparel land on Earth and are prepped to invade, but they start having second thoughts when they discover emotions and the beauty of the human experience.

That is the general gist of ALPHA GANG, the latest from Writer-Director duo David and Nathan Zellner (whose last film was the absolutely batshit Sasquatch Sunset) and it is odd to say the least. The film uses the most abstract and absurdist level of humour to get its points about humanity and observations about nature across, and then layers a chaotic level of violent gun play on top of it. To wit, there is an entire scene of the titular gang trying to mow down a colony of ants by using the most bullets and grenades necessary. That’s the kind of film this is. And while the entire aesthetic of ALPHA GANG is stylish as hell, with the costumes, makeup and soundtrack being particularly notable, it does take awhile to get on the film’s wavelength. Even then, you may still find yourself unable to fully commit to the insane vision the Zellners have crafted. ALPHA GANG is certainly not going to be for everyone, but it is certainly a unique vision and is never boring.

The cast the Zellners have assembled here is almost as ludicrous as the film itself. Léa Seydoux, Dave Bautista, Lily-Rose Depp, Riley Keough,Kelvin Harrison Jr. and Doona Bae make up the main cast, each committing fully to the deranged level of theatrics asked of them and often in hilarious fashion. Oscar-winner Cate Blanchett even shows up in a bit part in the third act that is unhinged and must be seen to be believed. Yet for all of those committed performances, none can match the sheer reckless energy of Chris Pine, who makes a seismic impact on the film that starts from his first frame on-screen and never dissipates. You will not be able to take your eyes off him.

ALPHA GANG screens at TIFF ‘26:

Sun. Sept 13 at 9:30 PM at VISA Screening Room at the Princess of Wales Theatre

Mon. Sept 14 at 5:30 PM at Scotiabank Theatre

Thurs. Sept 17 at 2:00 PM at VISA Screening Room at the Princess of Wales Theatre

Sun. Sept 20 at 5:00 PM at Scotiabank Theatre